Women’s health: let’s talk about endometriosis

Endometriosis can have a significant impact on a person's life in a number of ways, including:

• chronic pain
• fatigue or lack of energy
• depression or isolation
• problems with a couple’s sex life and relationships
• an inability to conceive
• difficulty in fulfilling work and social commitments

One in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK suffer from endometriosis, with 176 million people affected worldwide.

Although endometriosis is the second most common gynaecological condition in the UK, it takes on average seven-and-a-half years from the onset of symptoms to get a diagnosis.

Endometriosis costs the UK economy £8.2bn a year in treatment, loss of work and healthcare costs.

The cause of endometriosis is unknown and there is no definite cure. It's also estimated that the prevalence of endometriosis in women with infertility could be as high as 30% to 50%.

Find out more from Endometriosis UK

Speakers

Amandeep Khasriya 

Amandeep is a senior associate at Moore Barlow specialising in major trauma claims with over 12 years of experience.

She is a member of our Women Solicitors Network committee and founder of Women Back to Law.

Anita Gohil-Thorp 

Anita is a professional coach supporting diverse individuals in their legal careers and wellbeing with over 15 years of experience.

Anita’s endometriosis diagnosis came seven years ago, after years of complaining to doctors.

Having received inconsistent guidance on treatments and complications following the birth of her second child, Anita has evolved her own endometriosis management regime through lifestyle and dietary changes, exercise and tools including mindfulness and affirmations.

Her personal experience of positive mental and physical health combined with their impact in the workplace drives her desire for more women to uncover their unique coping mechanisms.

Francesca Steyn 

Francesca is the director of fertility services at Peppy and the current chair of the Royal College of Nursing Fertility Nurses Forum.

She has over 15 years of experience in the NHS and private fertility sectors, and was awarded Surrogacy Professional of the Year in 2018 and 2019.

Francesca is passionate that fertility patients receive a high level of fertility care and that nursing staff have the opportunities to develop their skills to ensure that they are able to deliver high quality care to their patients.

Sinéad McGrath 

Sinéad is a paralegal at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP specialising in financial litigation.

In June 2019, she was elected to the Law Society Council on behalf of LPC students and trainees for a two-year term. Sinéad also sits on the executive committee of the national Junior Lawyers Division.

Sinéad is passionate about raising awareness in relation to female health and fertility after her own diagnosis of endometriosis at the age of 13.

Having experienced working in legal practice whilst undergoing treatment, Sinéad wants to ensure support is available for others who may need it.